Techs for biomedical equipment in demand

By Cheryl P. Rose |
July 4, 2013

San Jacinto College is opening new certificate and degree programs in August to train students to become biomedical equipment techs.

Inside any hospital today, the whirring, beeping and humming in the background are indicative of a variety of sophisticated machinery providing diagnostic information, delivering medications and more. As medical technology leaps forward, so have the electronic, computerized and mechanical instruments to support medical personnel.

"When people visit the hospital, they take it for granted that all this computerized equipment works, but they don't see the people behind the scenes that keep it going," said Kevin Morris, interim dean of business and technology at San Jacinto College's South Campus. "The medical field is getting more technologically advanced equipment, but we are short on people to maintain and repair it."

Looking at national statistics and employment trends, biomedical clinical equipment technicians are anticipated to have higher-than-average hiring rates during the next decade, Morris said. With local hospitals already scrambling to fill positions, San Jacinto College is opening new certificate and degree programs in August to train students to become biomedical equipment techs.

The role of a biomedical equipment tech includes repairing and replacing medical equipment, testing and calibrating equipment, performing and recording all preventive maintenance within health-care regulations, procuring and tracking inventory, and facilitating training on how to use all the types of equipment.

"There are a lot of tasks under their job duties," Morris said. "It ranges from daily maintenance to being called into an operating room if equipment requires immediate service."

For biomedical tech training, San Jacinto College will offer a two-year associate degree in applied science, or three levels of certificate options ranging from one to four semesters.

Morris said most employers want those candidates who lack previous experience to have an associate degree. For those with previous training in the military or in a similar medical-equipment field, the certificate route can provide the credentials to re-enter the job market with updated skills.

"The curriculum centers around medical equipment, electronics and computer information technology," he said. "The class will be open enrollment, but limited to 20 students with a high school diploma or GED. Successful candidates should possess problem-solving skills, some mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. Good communication skills and the ability to work as a team are also important."

For the associate degree, some general education classes also are required. About halfway into the program, students will have the opportunity to participate in internships where they can start getting on-site, practical experience, Morris said.